Hildegard of Bingen: A Saint for Our Times

It has taken from the 12th century until now to declare Hildegard a Saint and Doctor of the Roman Catholic Church.

In the pages of this book, Hildegard’s teachings – and warnings – live again. By pointing out the injustices of her time, we recognize them as the same injustices of our time – only magnified.

She warns us of the consequences of the mistreatment and marginalizing of women, oppression of the poor and powerless, destruction of our environment, and the dangers of a patriarchal system run wild.

Demanding reform of society’s institutions and social structures, Hildegard implores all of us to live in integrity with our espoused principles. She especially implores our leaders to wield their influence “wisely.”

Hildegard also tells us how to bring light to the dark places in our lives, and thus our world. She urges us to “be useful,” to nurture nature, to speak up against injustice wherever we find it. But she also reminds us to sing, to dance, to be creative, and to celebrate life.

Matthew Fox wields his pen passionately, putting us in touch with the animating and reforming power of Hildegard as she urges us to “wake up.” Dare we ignore her plea?